By Katie Hickey
Often, when a friend or loved one has a mood or behavior change, those around the person notice. However, it can be difficult to determine whether or not it is appropriate to mention these changes. Mood changes can be passed off as a temporary funk, or a reaction to a stressful family or work situation. However, asking someone who appears to be behaving differently what is going on can be extremely helpful. Although it may feel uncomfortable or intrusive at first, it is important to check in with your friend or loved one to make sure that what they are showing isn’t a sign of something more serious.
Depression is one of the leading risk factors for suicide. Approximately 30,000 Americans die by suicide each year. While depression can be a devastating and debilitating illness, it is highly treatable. In fact, according to the National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI), 80% to 90%of people suffering from depression can be effectively treated, and are able to return to their normal routines.
Recent research reveals that 70% of people who complete a suicide tell someone or give 
warning signs before taking their own life. As a friend or loved one of someone who may be in crisis, it’s important to become familiar with the ACT approach (Acknowledge, Care, Treatment), which has been proven to reduce the likelihood of suicide attempts. To read more about ACT, the warning signs for depression and suicide, or to complete a Suicide Risk Questionnaire to see if your friend or loved one may be suffering, click here. You can also check out StopASuicide.org, to learn about the warning signs of suicide and what you can do to help yourself or others.
If you’re a Military member in crisis, or know someone who is, confidential support is only a phone call, click, or text away—24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call the Military Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and press 1. You can also contact the Military Crisis Line via text by sending a message to 838255 or through chat at http://www.veteranscrisisline.net/ChatTermsOfService.aspx?account=Veterans
Don’t let your friend or loved one fight depression alone. Sometimes all it takes is a concerned and helpful friend or loved one to help guide them to the treatment they need.
Katie Hickey is the marketing writer for Screening for Mental Health.
